Utah County victim‑witness coordinator: VOCA caseloads remain high; new position expected to expand capacity

A victim‑witness coordinator with the Utah County Attorney's Office updated the commission on VOCA grant activity and demand for services.

The coordinator said the county shifted to a two‑year VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) grant cycle and has completed the second quarter of the first grant year. She reported that caseload numbers remain "strong," by which she meant unfortunately high; domestic violence victims represent a significant portion of the caseload and she said the office continues to see many new victims as the county grows. The coordinator thanked the commission for approving an additional victim‑witness coordinator position, saying the new hire should allow the office to serve victims more completely.

When asked about trends, the coordinator said increased awareness and outreach can bring more reports forward and that public education is important. She added that the office would like to see a reduction in victimization but that, at present, demand remains above capacity in some areas.

The coordinator also referenced elevated homicide counts earlier in the year (as stated in the transcript) and reiterated the need for victim services across the county. The commission thanked the presenter for the update. The presentation was given during a scheduled work session and will be followed by the next required VOCA update in a few months.